Making a mark on the hi-fi industry, Audio Technica have long remained an iconic name amongst the audiophile community. Representing quality Japanese craftsmanship and contemporary vinyl consumption, their impressive range of turntables cater for old and new generations of record spinners.
History of the brand
Certainly known for their phono cartridges, which were the first product Audio Technica launched when the company opened for business during the 1960’s. The company was founded by Hideo Masushita in Tokyo, Japan as rock and roll music marked the sound of the time. During this time, record playing was at its initial height and due to this, Audio Technica saw a gap in the market for high quality mass produced pickups. The 80’s saw the creation of the brands first portable record player called the Master Disc, which was eventually reinvented as the ‘Sound Burger’.
The 2000’s saw shift in Audio Technica’s audio equipment releases, as the brand turned from headphones, cables and cartridges to turntable design. The AT-LP120-USB was one of the most notable turntables thanks to it’s built-in phono stage, direct-drive design and USB function. Particularly impressive at the time was the AT-LP120-USB’s likelihood to the acclaimed Technics SL1200/1210 decks. The direct-drive design is incorporated in many of their turntables today as it enables perfect pitch and perfect speed without any vibrations. Because the motor is directly under the turntable platter, it spins the records very consistently for prolonged use without having to worry about a belt wearing down. Audio Technica’s current range of turntables represent their pioneering attitude in ensuring the vinyl revival is captivated by the warmth and authenticity of vinyl sound.
AT-LP3 Turntable
For a great sounding turntable on a budget, the AT-LP3 turntable is a great option, providing an excellent choice for vinyl newbies while securing that signature Audio Technica sound. What Hi-Fi Winner 2017, the AT-LP3 has been heralded for it’s easy of use. Utilising technological advancements, this model features an automatic tonearm which makes playing your records a lot more relaxed because it means you can just press a few buttons, the record will play and the needle will stop it when it’s finished without you having to get up.
As well as this, a built-in phono stage with the rare ability to cater to both MM and MC cartridges makes customising the turntable easy. It also means the turntable can be hooked straight up to an amplifier for added convenience. This is an award-winning turntable that offers a enjoyably eloquent and musical performance that we think is great value for money.
AT-LP120X Turntable
Another one of Audio Technica’s popular entry-level turntables is the fully manual AT-LP120X. This is a great sounding record player and one of the best sellers due to how well it performs for such a moderate price. Significant upgrades were made in the AT-LP20X from the AT-LP120, including an all new lightweight motor and new digital functions in the shape of a USB connection.
For the experimental vinyl enthusiast or budding producer, the USB output is ideal as you can sample and mix records straight from the turntable as well convert vinyl to digital and upload them on to your computer for further refinements. An attractive design and a handsome list of specs including anti-skate control and built-in phono pre-amp make the AT-LP120 X our best-selling AT turntable.
AT-LPW30TK Turntable
The AT-LPW30TK offers a refreshing take on deck design in a market saturated by black and plastic turntables. Finished in beautiful real teak wood veneer, Audio Technica provide not only an attractive new model but also a new demographic. Although low in cost, the AT-LPW30TK offers something a bit more special for experienced record spinners, with the flattering unit appealing to those who value a stylish hi-fi set-up.
It’s powered by a DC motor, driven by a belt, features switchable phono pre-amp and anti-skate control. It’s belt driven operation is a departure from Audio Technica’s usual design and is ideal if you want a more traditionally designed hi-fi turntable still with the benefits of solid Audio Technica build quality. It’s record playing made clean and simple as only two speeds are available and non-automatic tonearm with AT-VM95C cartridges ensures a stripped back purist analog performance.
AT-LP5X Turntable
Accommodating for the vinyl consumers essential needs whilst providing the best technologies Audio Technica have to offer is the AT-LP5X, which sits at the very top of their turntable range we have on offer. It’s eclipses the already impressive original AT-LP5 model with an additional speed option of 78rpm as well as new AT-VM95E cartridge. This new cartridge homes in on both dynamics and frequency response thanks to it’s bigger output, which ensures a smoother audio performance with more depth and character.
It also features the same USB function as the best-selling AT-LP120X, as well as fully manual design, and switchable MM/MC phono stage. Vinyl lovers with a larger budget can take advantage of how easy this turntable is to use, and with a winning sound presentation, and sleek design, it really is a no brainer.
Want more information on Audio Technica’s turntables? Head over to our main website where you can do just so plus explore the rest of the range.